National Department of Social Development Bursary Application for 2026/2027
Detailed Guide on National Department of Social Development Bursary Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student passionate about making a difference in society through social development, community welfare, or human services? The National Department of Social Development (DSD) Bursary Programme 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering financial assistance to talented learners who wish to pursue studies in critical fields such as social work, psychology, child protection, and community development. As the government department responsible for promoting social welfare, improving quality of life, and supporting vulnerable communities across South Africa, the DSD invests in education to cultivate skilled professionals who will drive social transformation and community empowerment.
The National Department of Social Development Bursary provides comprehensive financial support, which may cover tuition fees, prescribed textbooks, accommodation, meals, and a living allowance. Recipients also gain access to mentorship programmes, practical training, and potential employment opportunities within government social services. This bursary is specifically aimed at students with strong academic records and a commitment to contributing to South Africa’s social development sector.
By applying for the National Department of Social Development Bursary 2026/2027, students not only ease the financial burden of higher education but also gain a pathway into rewarding careers in social work, community development, and public service.
In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.
Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026
Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026
Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026
Keep reading to learn more about the eligibility criteria, fields of study supported, application process, and closing date for the National Department of Social Development Bursary Programme 2026/2027.
About the Department of Social Development
The Department of Social Development (DSD) was established in 1937 and is a government institution responsible for the management of social security, social assistance, and social insurance for South Africans affected by unemployment, age, disability, or loss of income due to death.
Formerly known as the Department of Welfare, the name changed to Social Development in 2000, reflecting its broader mandate of supporting social welfare programmes and promoting social justice throughout the country.
About the Social Development Bursary Programme 2026/2027
The DSD Bursary Programme is specifically designed for students who wish to pursue a career in Social Work. This field is highly needed in South Africa, offering meaningful work opportunities while helping vulnerable communities.
Coverage of the Bursary
The bursary covers the following expenses:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Accommodation at the university
Service Obligation
Recipients of the bursary are required to fulfill a contractual service obligation upon completion of their studies, contributing to the national social services sector.
Eligibility Requirements for National Department of Social Development Bursary Application for 2026/2027
To qualify for the Department of Social Development Bursary, applicants must meet all of the following minimum requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Meet the minimum university entry requirements
- Must be studying or intending to study Social Work
Applicants who fail to meet any of these requirements will not be considered.
How to Apply for National Department of Social Development Bursary 2026/2027
Students can collect application forms from:
- The Provincial Departments of Social Development
- The Social Work faculty at their university
Required Supporting Documents
Along with the completed application form, applicants must submit certified copies of the following:
- South African ID document
- Matric final results
- Parents/guardians’ ID documents
- Parents/guardians’ proof of income (payslips or affidavit if unemployed)
- Proof of university admission or registration payment
- Current university students must also include: official academic record
Incomplete applications may be disregarded.
Provincial Submission Addresses
Applications must be submitted to the relevant Department of Social Development office in your province:
- Eastern Cape: Beacon Hill Office Park, Corner of Hargreaves Road & Hockley Close, King William’s Town, 5606 | Private Bag X0039, Bhisho, 5606
- Free State: Old Mutual Building, Charlotte Maxeke Street, Bloemfontein, 9300 | Private Bag X20616, Bloemfontein, 9300
- Gauteng: 75 Commissioner Street, Johannesburg, 2000 | Private Bag X35, Johannesburg, 2000
- KwaZulu-Natal: Mayors Walk Office Park, 174 Mayors Walk Road, Pietermaritzburg, 3200
- Limpopo: 18 College Street, Polokwane, 0700 | Private Bag X9710, Polokwane, 0700
- Mpumalanga: No 7 Government Boulevard, Riverside Complex, Building No.3, 2nd Floor, Nelspruit, 1200 | Private Bag X11213, Nelspruit, 1200
- Northern Cape: Du Toit Span Building, 15th Floor, Du Toit Span Street, Kimberley, 8300 | Private Bag X5042, Kimberley, 8300
- North West: Provident House Building, University Drive, Mmabatho, 2735 | Private Bag X6, Mmabatho, 2735
- Western Cape: 14 Queen Victoria Street, Union Building, Cape Town, 8000 | P.O Box 659, Cape Town, 8000
Closing Date for National Department of Social Development Bursary Application 2026/2027
Application Deadline: 31 October annually
Applications submitted after this date will not be accepted, so students are advised to apply early.
Contact the Department of Social Development
For any queries regarding the bursary, contact the National Department of Social Development:
Contact Persons: Ms Vuyelwa Mngadi / Ms Kefiloe Fokase
Tel: 012 312 7294 / 012 312 7223
Email: VuyelwaM@dsd.gov.za / KefiloeB@dsd.gov.za